Energy Smart, a one-year-old program run through the state's chamber of commerce, has received additional funding from Xcel Energy to further its service. The funding plan took effect Jan. 1.
Jill Curran, program manager, said it's geared toward small to medium-sized business that usually lack the staffing needed to analyze their options, such as low-interest loans and grants.
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One Minneapolis manufacturing company Curran helped facilitate an audit for is now expected to save roughly $1,400 annually in lighting and energy. The business employs about 10 people.
"Not only are they saving this money, but the quality of their lighting has improved drastically," she said. "And their employees have been just glowing about how much better they can actually see."
Although business owners may be concerned about operating costs, Curran stresses the money returns to their pockets once they've paid off upgrade costs. A St. Cloud-based beverage provider, Bernick's Beverages and Vending, received an audit through Energy Smart and is expected to save $80,000 per year on electric bills.
According to a press release, the business, which has six facilities, also anticipated to recoup the investment in one year.
"You can do whatever you want with [the savings]," Curran said. "It might mean saving somebody's job. It just depends on the individual business."
The Breckenridge Public Utility office also offers year-round programs to upgrade organizations and businesses. Snyder Drug, RDO Equipment and Breckenridge High School have so far taken advantage of a lighting retrofit, which secures more energy-efficient lighting, said Jeff Muehler, Public Works director.
Contact Curran about Energy Smart at 651-292-4653 or Muehler at the Public Utilities office at 643-4681.
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